Grape Seed Extract
Also known as: Vitis vinifera seed extract, GSE, grape seed OPC, proanthocyanidin extract
Grape seed extract is a concentrated polyphenol fraction prepared from the seeds left over after winemaking or juice pressing. Its defining constituents are oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), and most commercial material is standardized to 95% total proanthocyanidins. Formulators reach for it in cardiovascular, circulation, and antioxidant blends, where it is commonly used to support healthy blood pressure and vascular function. It is also a frequent partner to vitamin C and other flavonoids in general-wellness products.
Research summary
Proanthocyanidins are studied for effects on endothelial nitric oxide signaling and for scavenging reactive oxygen species.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 mg | 150–300 mg | — | — |
Usually taken once or twice daily with food. Meta-analyses pooled trials spanning a wide dose range, so 150 to 300 mg of a 95% OPC extract represents the common commercial midpoint rather than a single validated dose.
Standardization: 95% proanthocyanidins (OPC)
Source material: seed extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Astringent and tannic; keep gummy inclusion low.
Formulation notes
Tannin-rich; may bind proteins and minerals in a shared powder matrix. Often paired with vitamin C.
Sources
- The effect of grape seed extract on cardiovascular risk markers: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. (Feringa HH 2011)PubMed
- The effect of grape seed extract supplementation on oxidative stress and inflammation: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials. (Foshati S 2021)PubMed
Related ingredients
Vitamin E (d-Alpha-Tocopheryl Succinate)
VitaminThe succinate ester of natural (RRR or d-) alpha-tocopherol, the one vitamin E form the body maintains in plasma and the form on which the RDA is based.
Typical: 67–268 mg
Lycopene
AntioxidantLycopene is the red carotenoid that gives tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit their color.
Typical: 10–30 mg
Pine Bark Extract (95% OPC)
BotanicalPine bark extract is a polyphenol-rich extract of French maritime pine (Pinus pinaster) bark, standardized to oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs).
Typical: 50–200 mg
Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols)
VitaminA natural oil concentrate containing all four tocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma, delta) in roughly the proportions found in vegetable oils, usually with gamma-tocopherol dominant.
Typical: 100–400 mg
Pomegranate Extract
BotanicalAn extract of pomegranate fruit or peel standardized to punicalagins or ellagic acid, the polyphenols responsible for its antioxidant reputation, used in heart, antioxidant, and exercise-recovery formulas.
Typical: 500–1,000 mg